1998 Volvo S40 2.0 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Faults:

A couple globes went out, one on the side and the other a brake light.

Back right-hand speaker has a problem with bass and high volume (due to me playing music to loud)

General Comments:

This car is a solid all round package. The interior is well laid out and comfortable with a touch of class. However for larger sized rear passengers it can be a bit of a squeeze.

I have Grey leather interior with wood trim that I have found are of good quality and really suit the limited edition pearl silver color of the car.

It is a classic shape and the 1998 model had the best of them, after the 1998 model the squashed it inward on both the sides and the back which I found as a young drive takes away from the sports sedan appeal that the 1998 model has.

The stock sound system if fantastic although I caused the back right-hand speaker to go due to playing loud music.

Engine wise it can have problems with picking up speed when you plant your foot to the floor. The acceleration can be patchy and can feel sluggish at times. Generally the car takes off easier when in 'sports' mode. However for general traffic driving it is pleasant and certainly enough power.

However the turbo model would result in better all-round performance and allow more power to the wheels, and if I were to get this car again the turbo option would definatly be included.

But if you are a fan of Volvo's and need a nice compact and elegant sedan then this is a good option, but don't expect a sports sedan unless you are willing to go for the turbo option, and even then there are better Volvo options available.

I also have a 1998 C70 and I can honestly say that the C70 is the best Volvo ever made. With 176Kw and nine speaker Dolby digital surround sound standard it's the ultimate Volvo where sports meets luxury. It is also capable of going from 0 - 100 kilometers and hour in seven seconds flat (and that's for automatic). If you want a sports car that isn't going to cost a mountain of cash then I suggest you take the c70 for a test drive.

6th Jul 2006, 17:28

I have an R reg 2.0 CD, and must say I don't find the gearbox a problem. There is a bit of play in the stick whilst in gear, and compared to the box of my old Prelude, the feel isn't too inspiring. Not a good box, but definitely not the worst I've used by a long shot!!

Totally agree with the handling too, although wider and lower profile tyres help a lot.